Here at Makeup.com, we are lucky enough to have a panel of experts to sound off on the latest and greatest beauty topics. Today, for example, we asked hair guru Zachary Morad to give us the scoop on the common mistakes made with thick hair.

Having thick hair is a big responsibility and trying new styling techniques can be a bit scary since thick hair generally has a mind of its own. To help relieve you of some of that anxiety, I’m going to share some of the most common mistakes people make with thick hair as well as some best practices so you can make every day a good hair day.

Thinning It Out Too Much

One of the most popular ways people deal with thick hair is by thinning it out. And while removing some bulk from your hair may seem like the best way to make it more manageable, in most cases you may actually be making matters worse. Over-thinning thick hair with shears or a razor can cause unwanted volume from the pumped-up, shorter layers left behind during the thinning process. It can also fray the ends of your hair leaving appearing stringy and/or unhealthy. Layering the hair properly is the best way to ditch any extra bulk you may have without compromising the look or integrity of the hair (we’ll discuss this more below).

Getting a Super-Short Cut

Another route many take to achieve more manageability is opting for a super-short haircut. Once again, this may actually create more work for you in the long run. Short haircuts in general require more commitment in the styling and hair care department, so if you’re looking for an easy, breezy style, this may not be the best option for you. When thick hair is cut too short, styling techniques like sectioning and updos are difficult to do, if not impossible. If you are looking for a shorter style that will work well with thicker hair, try a triangular long bob that is longer in the front. This will make pulling your hair back easier and will also distribute your hair in such a way that it appears sleeker and thinner.

Getting It Chemically Straightened

I’ve seen many clients opt for a chemical straightening treatment in the hopes that it will make their thick hair more manageable. What most often happens is the natural texture of the hair is ruined and it becomes over-processed and unmanageable. If you’re looking to create an easier, sleeker look try getting a keratin treatment. Keratin treatments fill in the small divots in your hair that create texture to smooth it out and compress the cuticle, making it easier to style. These treatments are also not permanent as they wash out over time and eventually restore your hair’s natural texture.

Not Using The Right Shampoo & Conditioner

Another common mistake made with thick hair is using the wrong products. Many mistaken thick hair for curly or textured hair and therefore stock up on formulas that are too thick and weigh it down even more. Thick hair tends to retain oil more due to the density of the hair strands. Overtime, this can create a lot of buildup, leaving your locks looking lackluster and dull. With thick hair it’s important to properly cleanse it to avoid this buildup effect. Try a gentle clarifying shampoo and light conditioner like those from the Kérastase Cristalliste line. These formulas work together to wash out any oil and residue left over from styling products and keep your hair looking fresh and healthy.

Avoiding Layers

If you are part of the thick-hair family, you’ve probably experienced the fear of a new haircut. Finding the right cut for your thick tresses can can be a stressful thing and it might take a few tries before you find the perfect cut. The anxiety and confusion often causes women to choose the ease of a single-length, blunt haircut. This may work for some, but for others, this isn’t necessarily the way to go. Don’t be afraid to layer your hair! Creating a long layering pattern will not only shed some weight from your hair, but it also gives you more styling versatility and a beautiful shape. Make sure you avoid short layers!